Cindy D.
I want a man with great lips for long kisses, beautiful eyes that lead to his heart, and a passion for life and living it to the fullest!
I want someone that wants to give love and receive love back.
So simple!
......and I do believe that I've found that in Bryan D. YOU ROCK! 
ABOUT ME
I've just begun the best journey of my life!
So, here's how it all began.....
I watched my sister lose weight with WLS. She is sooo beautiful, so I decided that I couldn't let her pass me up. Not really, but she is an inspiration for me. I've been thinking about it for a long, long time. So.......
I have gone with Smart Dimensions in Fountain Valley
2/3 ..new patient class
Because I have St Jude Heritage as my provider for Blue Cross, I had to complete a series of appointments BEFORE my paperwork could be submitted for approval. I was in a hurry because of my Spring Break, so I was able to get all the necessary appointments the following week.
2/7 ..nutrition class
2/7 ..doctor talk
2/8 ..check up with my PCP
2/11 ..one-on-one with Doctor
2/11 ..psychologist
My paperwork was submitted on 2/15 (approximately). I spoke with my PCP on 2/21 and they had received approval. Dr LaPorte's office called about a week later to schedule my surgery, so, had I not ruptured my achilles tendon on 2/16, I would have been able to have my surgery in the middle of March.
I will be out of work until my physical therapy is completed. I figured I might as well go ahead and have the surgery done while I am also doing physical therapy. As long as my incision on my ankle is healed, I will be able to continue with my plans.
I've talked to people that had the surgery done by Dr. LaPorte's group and they have been very happy with the staff, surgeon, hospital, etc. I feel safe
Bubba Gumps, Monterey 7/2004
Bubba Gumps, Monterey 1/2006 
4/22/05
Today was a really GREAT day! I saw my orthopedist regarding my achilles tendon repair that I had on Feb. 24. He is very pleased with the progress of the incision. My wound was not healing very quickly, but with a little patience and a great wound care nurse at the hospital, it seems to be doing very well. He has allowed me to start walking, driving, and begin physical therapy next week. From a "wound" standpoint, he says that I am fine to has my WLS on May 5. His concern is that my foot might not be strong enough for all the walking I need to do. I talked to Smart Dimensions and they think I will be fine, that I won't be walking a marathon yet and will be able to rest when necessary. So, it appears I'm a GO for May 5. Wow! That's less then 2 weeks away. I'm very excited and nervous all at the same time. I know this is the right decision. I've struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember (7 years old). I look forward to all the new things I can do.
My On-going List of things I want to do:
(in no certain order, except #1)
1. Live ...feeling better and better everyday! ...done 12/06
2. Shop at a "regular" store ...done 3/06
3. Horseback ride
4. Cross my legs when sitting ...done 12/05
5. Paint my own toenails ...done 12/06
6. Parasail
7. Fit in a booth at a restaurant without suffocating ..done 12/05
8. Go on ALL the rides at Disneyland! ...done 12/06
9. Use tray on an airplane ...done 3/07
10. Buy a bra from Victoria's Secret
11. Fit in an airline seat w/out seatbelt extension ...done 3/07
12. Ride a donkey into the Grand Canyon
13. Fit comfortably in the seat at an ANGEL game! ...done 8/06
14. Go to a water park and ride all the slides
15. Ride roller coasters at Disneyland ...done 12/06
4/26/05
I had my preops at Orange Coast Memorial. I had to be there at 6:45, which is very early for me these days, since I've been out of work. Everything went well. Started the day off with pre-registration. I had to give a urine specimen then went to radiology for my gall bladder ultrasound, chest xray, and upper gi. It was a nice change to have a gown that fit! Anyhow, the only yukky part was drinking that nasty white stuff for the upper gi. Not like one glass was enough, had to drink two. Then I went back upstairs to have my blood drawn and go over pre-op instruction. I had something to eat at the cafeteria before I headed over to Smart Dimensions to sign paperwork and go over more preop instructions. I met Cyndi T. and Marisela. They were both really nice. Back to the hospital for blood gasses. This was the part of the day I was dreading the most. I had heard/read the most awful things about it. I was second, and it wasn't too bad. Had to "dig" around for a small amount of time, but it really didn't hurt. Cyndi T. went third and hers was really painful. Guess there's no "rhyme or reason" to it. By that time, I was pretty beat. My foot was getting sore and cramps were coming back. On the way home, my cramps got pretty bad. Barely made it to the restroom; I think the stuff you drink for the upper gi gave me the runs. Oh well, nothing a good nap didn't cure. Now I'm only 9 days away. I can't wait!!!! I'm very excited about my upcoming changes. 
4/28/05
I went to my first "event" tonight. I had dinner at Tony Roma's with some other people for OH. I had a lot of fun. I'm pretty shy at first, so I hope people don't think I was "aloof". I met a lot of nice people. So far everyone I've met is really nice. I had coffee with my angel, Audrey P., today. It was fun to meet and chat. She probably thinks that I'm a chatterbox. I'm really not, it's just that I've been cooped up sooooo long with my foot injury, that it's nice to get out and have someone to talk to. I talk alot to my dogs, but they don't seem to answer me like they used to!
I can't believe surgery is only a week away. I have a pretty busy week ahead of me, so hopefully time will go fast. I'm planning on having my "last supper" with my son at Mongolian BBQ. It's one of his favorite places (mine too). Figure I should go and get my money's worth while I still can. 
5/04/05
HOLY MOLY! Surgery is just one day away. I can't believe it's finally here. I saw my orthopedist today and he said my foot appears to be strong enough and the incision is healed enough for surgery. WHOO HOOO!!! What I'm not enjoying is the clear liquid diet today. I would love some bacon, eggs, and hash browns. Darn it! Oh well, it's well worth it. I've received a tremendous amount of support from the OH board. I have a great angel, Audrey. She is so kind. I'm very lucky. Even my "ex" boyfriend (we're still in limbo) might come down from Sacramento to see me out of recovery. I won't hold my breath, but I would sure be happy if he could make it. Overall, today is a really good day. I need to write my son, my sister, Matt, and others letters today to let them know how much I love them, etc... You know, it would be a good idea to do this, regardless of surgery. I think it's SO important to let the people we care about know it. We should never take for granite all the wonderful and loving people we have in our lives.
I gotta say that this day of clear liquids and milk of magnesia sucks. I just want to eat dinner, or lunch, or a snack! I know it's worth it, just getting pretty hungry. Audrey came by and brought me a gift for the hospital. She is sooo sweet. I love those little toothbrush things. I hate having dirty teeth! 
5/05/05
I'm off to the hospital. Boy, did 4am come quick! I'm very sleepy and have a sore throat from not being able to drink my morning (and nightly) water. Other than that, I am doing great.5/10/05
I'm at home now. I stayed at my Mom's house for a couple nights. She took really good care of me. It was nice to sleep in a "real" bed. I'm looking forward to my own bed tonight. Recovery hasn't been anything horrible. Sure, I'm sore. I mean, I have 6 incisions and had a major body part rerouted, so sore is to be expected. I'm not so fond of the liquid diet. Everything is SO sweet. I did make runny mashed potatoes with broth today. It is SOOOO good. Feels warm and fuzzy in my tummy. All of my body functions are working fine, with some effort. Overall, I just feel like I've been hit by a truck and need to rest. Well, maybe a small SUV, but still need to rest. 5/16/05
I have had a great experience with the surgery. I've had very little pain. I was able to sleep on my sides and stomach after only a day home. What I do have a problem with is the liquid diet. I can't barely choke down those protein shakes and carnation instant breakfasts. The liquid yogurt is completely out of the question. I get head-hunger for certain things. It lasts a few days, then moves on to something else. I was originally dieing for a bacon-avocado cheese burger with swiss cheese. Now it's turkey and cheese. I'm not really hungry, so I know it's all in my head. It should get better. I have an appointment with Dr. Ali this week. I'm hoping to move to the soft food stage because I am having a tremendous amount of trouble getting enough protein and calories with the liquid. I have made my mashed potatoes thicker and had no problem, so hopefully he will say okay. I've started walking on the treadmill. My foot starts to hurt with the rubbing on the back of my ankle, but I'm hanging in there. I've lost 10 pounds so far. Seems like a small amount as compared to others, but that's okay. It's 10 pounds I never lost before. 5/19/05
I had my 2 week doctors appointment today. I have lost 18 pounds so far. I am VERY happy. Dr. Ali told my mom that 10 pounds is average the first 2 weeks, so I'm doing well. I saw Dr. Ali's PA for the appointment. I guess this is normal with surgeons, although it would be nice to see Dr. Ali sometimes. I've had A LOT of trouble with the liquids. Grace (PA) says it is very common to become lactose intolerant after surgery. I am going to stay away from the dairy products and see if that helps. I returned my scale that I bought for home. Besides being a piece of junk (bought a cheap one), I have a hard time staying off of it. I will weigh when I go to the doctors office, otherwise I could easily become addicted to the scale. I'm looking forward to the Craig Park event this weekend. It should be pretty hot, literally. I plan on getting there early so I don't have to park on St. College. 5/27/05
That "rubbing" on my foot ended up being a real disaster. I had to be admitted and have surgery to clean up an infection in foot. I am home from the hospital, finally. My simple procedure of getting my incision cleaned and staying overnight for antibiotics drug out a bit. Turns out my foot was more infected than originally thought and it was a staph infection. I ended up staying 3 nights. Eating was really difficult, as was sleeping, and trying to stay positive. I now have to receive antibiotics by i.v. at home 2 times a day plus take others orally. This trip down medical lane has been the most taxing on my head. I'm completely frustrated and emotional about the whole thing. I just want to be better. I feel like I'm missing out on sooo many things to do. I really wanted to get back to my kids at work. Now I won't start work again til the August. Oh well, as long as I get better. That's what counts. 6/14/05
Life is moving right along. My foot is healing. I got the okay to start walking on it with crutches and I can drive. I'm not supposed to overdue it, but it's still nice to have some freedom back. I had the PICC line removed last Thursday and I don't have to have more lovenox shots anymore. I'm VERY glad for that. I have little bruises all over my tummy from them. I've been trying to eat more and more because my doctor wants my calorie intake to go up. I was averaging about 300 calories a day. I'm trying to do better, but it's hard. I'm never hungry and so much doesn't settle right. I struggle with the water too. I'm lucky to get in 34oz a day. I know it needs to be 64oz. but I'm just never thirsty. I see Dr. Ali this Friday for my 6 week check up. Hopefully I have lost more weight. I know that when I am up and fully mobile, I will lose more. I want to walk lots and sign up for a water aerobics class. Only time will tell. 6/17/05
Today is a very good day! I had my 6 week check up with Dr. Ali. I have lost 34 pounds total. I have moved from "super obese" to "morbidly obese". I am thrilled. I thought I wasn't losing because I have been so sedintary because of my foot surgery. Low and behold, I still lost weight. I can't wait until I can actually begin exercising. I got the clearance from Dr. Ali to do so, but still have more foot healing to do. I still have a hard time eating and then vomitting, but Dr. Ali thinks it might be due to all the antibiotics I'm taking. Only time will tell.
Last night was my son, Greg, highschool graduation. We went to the same highschool. It was amazing to see him graduate. We had a rough haul through highschool, but he made it and I'm VERY proud of him. He will leave for Medic training in the National Guard on July 5. He will be gone for 4 months, as long as they don't give him a medical release for his leg. I will miss him but it's great to see him turn into such a fine young man.
Overall, today is a GREAT day!!!!! 7/9/05
Life is rolling right along. My foot is healing very nicely. I'm only taking 1 antibiotic now. I've been getting sick from food a lot less. I pretty sure it was from all the different antibiotics I was having to take at once. My clothes are getting looser. 7/15/2005
Ever since I've moved to solids, I've had nothing but problems keeping them down. At my last doctors visit, he thought maybe it was due to the 2 kinds of antibiotics I was taking for my foot. Well, when one of them ran their course and I came off them, I was good for about a week, didn't throw up much. Now, for the past couple weeks, I'm back on track with throwing up almost on a daily basis. I've analyzed the situation to death...am I eating too quick, too much, bad choices, etc.... There is NO pattern to this. The only thing that I can guarantee staying down are liquids and pureed/soft foods. Everything else is a shot in the dark. Sometimes I'm okay, most of the time I'm not. I definately throw up more then I don't. I must say I'm completely miserable. It's not fun when I go to lunch with my "BF" and order, can't eat, and have to make 5 trips to the bathroom so I can spit/throw up. I called my surgeons office today and made an appointment for week after next (first opening). Well, I guess they figured it sounded important, because within in about 15 minutes, Richard (the PA) called me back. He says I have all the signs of a stricture and is ordering an upper GI for me right away. He said I've suffered far too long with this. So, with all that said...is the upper GI the same one I had as a preop? If there is a stricture, can someone please describe the next step? Thanks. 7/30/2005
I went to the Cheesecake Factory on Thursday night with a huge group of OH people. It was a lot of fun. I really enjoy getting together with people and just chatting. I took a TON of pictures. I guess I'm starting to get camera happy too.
I had my upper GI on Thursday. It wasn't bad. I was able to see pictures of my stomach on the screen. It was pretty cool. From the measurements, it appears that I have a slight stricture. Dr. Ali has ordered a dilation. I'm looking forward to that 'cause then I can eat more and maybe speed up my weight loss again. Sounds strange, but I don't eat very much, so my body has gone into a sort of starvation mode. I saw Dr. Ali on Friday for my almost 3 month check up. I've lost 11 more pounds since my last visit. That's not a whole lot, but it's because of my "lack of calories" issue. I'm still glad I lost some. While I was at my appointment, I was in dire pain. I woke up at about 7am with pain in my lower back, radiating to the the front. Also, I could not pee very much. I went to my PCP after my visit with Dr. Ali. He said it sounds like kidney stones so he sent me to the ER for a ct scan and pain meds. The meds were WONDERFUL! My doc was right, it was kidney stones. All I can do is drink LOTS AND LOTS of water and take LOTS of pain med and they will pass. If it's not one thing, it's another. I "googled" kidney stones. It says they are common to people with intestinal bypass surgery and also can occur when taking calcium supplements. HMMMM, both are me. And even better (not) is that once you had them once, you are more likely to get them again. I just have to make sure I drink lots and lots and lots of water. This pain has been worse then WLS or childbirth. I never want them again! 8/21/2005
Life continues on..... School started last Wednesday for me. I'm glad to be back at work. I was off for 6 months and really missed the kids. I had my endoscopy done on Friday. There was no stricture, but I do have an ulcer. The ulcer is what has been causing my nausea and vomitting. I will take Prilosec for 6 weeks. I've lost a total of 54 pounds. I'm VERY glad about that. I wish I'd lose a little faster, but at least I'm losing. I'm making sure I get my protein and water in each day. I'm averaging between 500-900 calories a day, 50-60 grams of protein, and 50 ozs. of water. I need to drink more water, but 50 is in improvement for me. 9/1/2005
I had my endoscopy done 2 weeks ago. There is no stricture, but I do have an ulcer. I now take prilosec for 6 weeks. It seems to be helping with the nausea and vomitting. The weight loss continues. I weighed at physical therapy the other day, and I'm down 58 pounds. Things are going well. The increased protein and working out at the gym is really helping. I like the gym. I feel really good about myself after I've worked out. 9/5/2005
One more day gone by and things are looking up. I was beginning to feel as if 4 months of work didn't matter. It's amazing how quickly your self-esteem can falter because of one event. Oh well, at least now, I go to the gym to vent rather than McDonalds! I weighed myself after my 100 minute workout today. My 4 month WLS anniversary weight is 268!!!! Woooo Hooooo! Now that makes me feel good! 10/3/2005
The picture below is of a very special OH member, John Ott. He worked and fought for 2 years to have his WLS. He passed away from complications after surgery. The doctors said his heart was too small, but I just can't believe that. He had the biggest heart of anyone I've ever met!! He was a wonderful man and I believe that he will be watching over all of us from above, sort of our own WLS Angel. 11/3/2005
Not much new going on. I went for my 6 month check-up today. I only lost 2 pounds in the last month and I'm pretty bummed about that. I know plateaus are normal, but I still don't like it. I've been giving in to the chip fairy a little too often and need to watch it. I've also slacked at going to the gym. I've only been getting there once a week. I need to step it up and get back on track. I want to be 250 by my cruise. I have about 3 weeks to accomplish that goal. I think I can do it. I weighed myself on my actual 6 month anniversary (Nov.5) and I have lost 2 more pounds, so I'm down a total of 78 pounds. Even just 2 days of upping my protein and getting all my water in has made a difference. 12/29/2005
Today is my 40th Birthday! I'm really looking forward to the next stage in my life. My first 20 years were spent "growing up". The last 20 have been raising my son. Now it's time to take care of me. This year has been quite eventful. I had 2 achilles tendon repair surgeries and WLS. I've overcome alot and am doing well. I've lost 90 pounds. While I would have liked to lost more, I'm very happy with 90. I'm wearing 1x shirts and 18 and 20 pants. I haven't worn these sizes since high school.
My sister and my friend Pam threw a 40th birthday party for me on Friday night. It was great! It was definately one of the best birthdays I've had. A lot of friends came and wished me well. We had great food and I got lots of nice gifts and gift cards. I'm going to hold off on getting anymore new clothes until my next size. I'm pretty set for now. 
Christmas 2005 Greg and Cindy 
40th Birthday 12/29/05 (a little fuzzy, sorry) 2/10/06
I finally broke my plateau and have lost some more weight. I made my -100 pounds on 2/18. I was/am SO thrilled. Now I have 50 more to go. I just keep trying to watch the snacking, carbs, and I exercise a ton.
I will have to have foot surgery again in the near future. I have a tear in my right achilles that has been causing me pain. I guess it happened from favoring it so much when my left foot was healing. I have what the doctors call "calcific tendonapathy". It will require an excision of the calcium and repair of the tear in the tendon. I will be in a weight-bearing cast for about 6 weeks. Hopefully this recovery will go better then last May.
Peace out! 
Claimjumper, February 2006 3/5/06
Today is my 10 month "surgi"versary. I'm very happy with my progress. I've lost over 100 pounds and have a little less then 50 to go. It's so nice to be able to go into stores and just buy something, go out to dinner and fit in the booth with no problem, or borrow a friends jacket and have it fit.
Life is very good!
I've gone to 2 OH lunch functions in the last 2 weeks. It makes me laugh, that we as an OH group, do so many things revolving around food. Well, I ate some chips and guacamole yesterday, so I didn't eat any of my lunch. I guess I make a cheap date. I've gotten to know some previous acquaintances better and made some new friends. I'm really enjoying myself and the people I'm getting to meet.
Again, Life is good! 3/6/06
I must say that I've met a totally great man that I'm completely and totally head-over-heals about. Bryan is a great guy and just what I need in my life right now (and for a LONG time). He is the pot-o-gold at the end of my rainbow. Thank you Bryan for becoming such an important part of my life. Whatever we do, whereever we go, I'm glad we are together.
3/20/2006
I was picked at SYSK by Bryan D for the week of 3/13/2006. I just want to thank everyone for their kind thoughts and words on my support page. I was really lucky to have received the "tiara" from someone that I adore with my entire heart. I want to spend the rest of my life with him. 
I really hope that as people learn more about me, I am able to give back all that I have learned from those before me. Reading profiles, looking at pictures, and scouring the posts has been the most useful and beneficial support. I really believe that OH has changed my life forever, in the most positive ways!
I've lost -111 pounds. I'm really happy with my weight loss. I can't believe that in 10 months, I could have lost this much weight. I realize that this is a tool and I have to be diligent about maintaining my loss for the rest of my life.
I will be having foot surgery on March 28. I have to have the achilles tendon in my right foot repaired. I'm so darn sick of surgery. This will make 4 surgeries since February 2005. Oh well, I guess old age does that to ya!3/28/2006
Today is my achilles tendon repair surgery...YUK! Oh well, soon I will be all better and walking a marathon.
Bryan and I spent a great weekend together (when aren't we together). We had such a nice time. He met my brother and then we took his daughter and niece to Wrightwood to play in the snow. It was a great day. I love my new life and my new family! I am truly blessed!
4-19-06
I'm still off of work due to my foot surgery and spring break. School starts again next Monday, but I won't be released until May 1. It's getting pretty boring around here.
Bryan and I are planning to get married in July. I am so excited. He is such an awesome, caring, kind, generous, and sexy man. I love him very much and can't wait to be his wife! 
I'm -112 pounds. I'd like to get below 200 by the time I get married. Once this cast is off, I'm back to the gym and walking, which will help A LOT!5/5/06
Wow, I can't believe it's been a year today. I guess I'll have to celebrate with good ole mexican food for Cinco de Mayo! Well, maybe just a little mexican food!
This year has been an amazing year. As I look back, I've made so many positive changes, it's hard to take it all in sometime. I'm down -112 pounds from the day of surgery and down -124 pounds from my all time high. My life is great! I'm making the best life possible for my family and me. It's all in the attitude!
Just before my WLS, I had an achilles rupture. I had surgery in Feb for that then my WLS then another foot surgery at the end of May. I had more foot surgery just last month. Boy, my feet should be great! I can't imagine what the healing process would have been like this time, had I weighed 112 pounds more.
My personal life has grown leaps and bounds. I had a rough year but swore to my self that 2006 was going to be "my" year. I had turned 40 and it was time to do something. I needed to take better care of my heart and be in a healthy relationship, even if it meant being alone.
I came to terms with being alone, then BAM!, I went to an OH lunch and basically fell in love. Bryan is everything I ever hoped for in a partner. He is truly the love of my life and my soulmate. I can't imagine my life without him. We will be getting married on July 16 and I can hardly wait.
The past year has been one full of a lot of growth and shrinking. I am thankful for all of it, the good and the bad. I've learned from the bad and it's only made the good that much better! I am truly thankful for all the support and friendships I've made through OH. OH will never be forgotten by me, for so many reasons. 7/27/06
I have been fortunate enough and blessed enough to have the honor of marrying a wonderful, kind, considerate, and VERY sexy man. Bryan and I were married in Las Vegas, NV on July 16 in front of both family and friends. I have never been happier! I believe with my whole heart that God put us together and has blessed our union and will continue to do so for a very long time.
Thank you Bryan, for loving me and completing my life in so many different ways. You are truly my soul mate and will cherish what we have forever ...and a day! 
9/29/06
Time sure does fly when you are having fun. Bryan and I have been married for a little over 2 months now and I have to say.... Being married to Bryan is truly the best thing that has ever happened to me (next to having my son). Bryan is an amazing man. He loves me SO dang much and he shows me in so many different ways. He really is the pot of gold at the end of my rainbow. I'm enjoying life and looking forward to many more years of happiness with him.
As for weight loss, well, I've only lost about 5 pounds in the past few months. I play with the same 5 pounds, going up and down. I get in my protein and my water, but it's the exercise I lack. Everytime I try to get back into my workout routine, my achilles in my foot acts up and I have to cut back. Even walking is an issue. I just do my best. I'm very lucky that I have a man that loves me for who I am and not what I look like. Actually, he thinks I'm beautiful, so there ya go! 5/4/07
Tomorrow is my two-year surgiversary. As I look back over the past 2 years, I realize that I've made a ton of changes to my life. I am very happy for all the good things that have happened and I try not to focus on the negative.
2 years ago, I had WLS, which would change my life forever. I weighed in at 344 pounds before surgery. I now weigh between 220-225. While I may not have made my "goal" weight of 185, I'm still VERY happy with the results. I learned to take care of both my physical and mental health. I've accomplished almost all of my "goals" on my list. I can do most anything I want, physically. I can do ANYTHING I want, mentally. I met a great man and found love again. Bryan is the kindest, most generous, sexiest, and HOTTEST man I know!!! I NEVER knew that someone could love me as much as I love him. He shows me most every day how much he loves me, in one way or another. Don't get me wrong, there are hard times, but they are not impossible and I know that we will be together forever ...and a day.
I'm looking forward to the next year and the year after and the year after that. I hope to continue to lose weight and work at it, most days :) I would like to have a tummy tuck, breast lift, and buy a house. Hmmmmm, I guess that all takes money, so time will tell.
I'm a very lucky woman. I have everything I want and need in my life. God has really blessed me and made all the trials and tribulations worth it. DATE DATE DATE DATE DATE DATE DATE
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